Baltimore Ravens' 5 Most Irreplaceable Players in 2014

Baltimore Ravens' 5 Most Irreplaceable Players in 2014

Don't be confused by last season's 8-8 finish. The Baltimore Ravens remain a talented team, capable of competing for another title in 2014. Here are five players Baltimore simply couldn't do without.

5. Haloti Ngata, Defensive Lineman

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5. Haloti Ngata, Defensive Lineman

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Haloti Ngata has the versatility to play any position along the Ravens' three-man defensive line. With rare quickness for a man of his gigantic size, Ngata has consistently been a disruptive force against the run and the pass. He's a true asset to Baltimore whether at nose tackle or defensive end.

4. Elvis Dumervil, Outside Linebacker

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4. Elvis Dumervil, Outside Linebacker

Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Quietly one of the league's most efficient edge rushers in 2013, Elvis Dumervil appears primed to make more noise in 2014 if he can steal snaps from Courtney Upshaw. In addition to grading as Pro Football Focus' top 3-4 outside linebacker in pass-rushing productivity, Dumervil posted solid scores in run defense. He's even bulked up this offseason to earn more of an every-down role.

3. Eugene Monroe, Left Tackle

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3. Eugene Monroe, Left Tackle

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The Ravens' offensive line was a mess last season. Thanks to one of the most inept run-blocking fronts in football, Baltimore's ground game never had a chance to get going. Left tackle Eugene Monroe was one positive, however. He graded well in pass protection and run blocking, making him a complete and reliable blindside protector. It's still a mystery as to why he didn't command more of a market during free agency.

2. Torrey Smith, Wide Receiver

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2. Torrey Smith, Wide Receiver

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Torrey Smith is beginning to surface as one of the sport's most explosive receivers. Despite quarterback Joe Flacco's struggles in 2013, Smith had his best season as a pro from a yardage standpoint, tallying 1,128 yards on 65 grabs. Shoring up his route running and developing a more consistent set of hands could launch him into the elite category at the position.

1. Terrell Suggs, Outside Linebacker

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1. Terrell Suggs, Outside Linebacker

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There are very few edge players as complete as outside linebacker Terrell Suggs. Proficient against the run and the pass, Suggs registered his fifth double-digit sack campaign last year while grading as Pro Football Focus' top run defender at his position. His decline is looming, but he still projects as one of the most all-around linebackers in football entering 2014.